Tag: Philadelphia home care

Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of Dementia

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Dementia is a complex disease marked by a decline in cognitive abilities, including memory, reasoning, and social skills. These changes can significantly impact a person’s daily life, making early recognition crucial for better treatment outcomes. Although symptoms vary by individual and type of dementia, several early warning signs are common across many types of dementia. Here’s what to look out for if you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one.

memory problems w calendar Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of Dementia

1. Memory Loss that Disrupts Daily Life

Short-term memory issues are often the first sign of dementia. Forgetting dates, repeatedly asking the same questions, or relying heavily on reminder notes are indicators to watch. While everyone occasionally forgets things, persistent memory loss that affects daily routines is a red flag (Alzheimer’s Association, 2023).

2. Challenges with Planning or Problem-Solving

People with early dementia may find it difficult to plan tasks or work through problems. For example, managing finances, following a recipe, or paying bills may become challenging. This change, often tied to executive functioning, can make once-simple tasks feel overwhelming and may lead to errors (Mayo Clinic, 2022).

3. Confusion about Time and Place

People experiencing dementia may lose track of dates, seasons, or even where they are. They might feel disoriented in unfamiliar places or struggle to understand events as they unfold (National Institute on Aging, 2021).

4. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks

Routine tasks, such as driving to familiar locations, preparing a favorite meal, or remembering the rules of a game, may become difficult for someone with dementia. This is distinct from occasional forgetfulness; it’s a noticeable inability to complete tasks that were once second nature, reflecting a decline in cognitive ability (Alzheimer’s Research UK, 2022). Remember to always compare cognitive functioning to the person’s previous baseline. This is why creating a comprehensive plan of care is crucial, as it allows us to realize when something has changed.

5. Changes in Mood and Personality

Mood and personality changes can also signal dementia, as the brain undergoes changes that affect emotional regulation. People may become anxious, fearful, easily upset, or depressed, and may show signs of apathy, especially regarding hobbies and activities they once enjoyed. They may also become suspicious of others, a response sometimes triggered by feelings of confusion and frustration (Alzheimer’s Association, 2023).

6. Trouble Understanding Visual or Spatial Relationships

Dementia can affect spatial perception and depth awareness, making it hard to judge distances, navigate spaces, or recognize familiar objects. This issue is especially prevalent for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease (one of the many forms of dementia), where visual processing in the brain is compromised. Misjudging distance while driving, for instance, can be an early indicator (World Health Organization, 2021).

7. Difficulty with Words and Conversations

Language challenges, such as struggling to find the right words, repeating phrases, or having difficulty following conversations, are also common in the earlier stages of dementia (Diamond and Emerald stages following the GEMs methodology). This can result in more frequent pauses, misunderstandings, or noticeable frustration when trying to communicate, which may lead to social withdrawal over time (Mayo Clinic, 2022).

What to Do if You Notice These Signs

If you or someone you know displays these symptoms, consider speaking with a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis can help rule out other potential causes, such as vitamin deficiencies or medication side effects, and enable planning for appropriate support and treatment options.

If there is a diagnosis of dementia, start your care team earlier. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to build a stable care team to support your loved one in the comfort of their home.

Let us tell you more about our approach to caring for those living with dementia: 610-323-9800.

References

Frontotemporal Dementia Warning Signs and Symptoms

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to a progressive decline in behavior, personality, language, and motor function. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, which is more common in older adults, FTD often impacts individuals between 40 and 65, and research shows that it is slightly more prevalent in men than in women.

early onset dementia Frontotemporal Dementia Warning Signs and Symptoms

Why FTD Is More Common in Men

Several factors contribute to the higher prevalence of FTD in men. Genetic research has suggested that certain genetic mutations linked to FTD, such as in the C9ORF72, MAPT, and GRN genes, might be more commonly expressed or lead to more severe symptoms in men. Additionally, some studies have found that brain networks and functions disrupted by FTD may vary subtly between genders, with the behavioral and emotional changes often associated with the male presentation of the disease possibly resulting in earlier and more noticeable symptoms. Lifestyle differences, like higher reported rates of traumatic brain injuries in men, could also contribute to this gender disparity.

Symptoms of FTD

The symptoms of FTD vary by subtype, but the most common form, behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD), involves:

  • Behavioral and Personality Changes: This includes increased impulsivity, social withdrawal, apathy, and inappropriate social behavior. Patients may struggle to understand social cues and exhibit compulsive or repetitive behaviors.
  • Language Difficulties: Known as primary progressive aphasia (PPA), this subtype affects speech, reading, writing, and comprehension. Over time, affected individuals may have difficulty forming sentences or finding the right words.
  • Motor Symptoms: In some cases, FTD can lead to physical symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease, such as tremors, muscle stiffness, and balance issues.

Implications of FTD Prevalence in Men

The slightly higher prevalence of FTD in men highlights the importance of early detection, particularly when behavioral changes are involved. As symptoms of FTD can sometimes resemble psychiatric disorders, particularly in men, an accurate diagnosis is crucial for receiving appropriate treatment and support. Increased awareness of these gender differences may lead to better diagnostic and care approaches, helping families and caregivers better understand the progression of FTD and support loved ones affected by it.

Creating a Care Team

It is challenging to build a care team around someone living with FTD. This is often the case because the disease progresses rapidly, and the care recipient often rejects proactive actions to implement a care team. The challenges are compounded by their impulsivity and sometimes boots of aggression and eloping.

It is crucial that you involve a professional caregiving team as soon as possible. These individuals have core skills that allow them to meet the individual where they are currently and scale up services once trust has been established. Want to learn more? Call us at 610-323-9800.

How Dementia Can Cause Erratic Behavior and Impact Decision-Making

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Dementia often brings about changes in the brain that affect not only memory but also a person’s ability to think clearly, make sound decisions, and control their behavior. One of the lesser-known impacts of dementia, especially in the early stages, is the increased likelihood of erratic behavior. This can manifest as unpredictable choices or impulsive actions that would be unusual for the person prior to the onset of dementia.

shutterstock 2450986075 How Dementia Can Cause Erratic Behavior and Impact Decision-Making

Understanding Erratic Behavior in Dementia

Erratic behavior in dementia stems from changes in the brain’s ability to regulate emotions and process information. Dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia, affects the prefrontal cortex — the part of the brain responsible for judgment, planning, and impulse control. As dementia progresses, individuals may make decisions that are out of character, sometimes ignoring risks or consequences that they previously would have carefully considered.

Impact on Decision-Making

  1. Impaired Judgment and Risk Evaluation
    Individuals with dementia may find it difficult to assess risks or foresee the outcomes of their actions. This could lead them to make unsafe choices, such as leaving doors unlocked or mishandling medications.
  2. Difficulty Following Logical Steps
    Everyday decisions, like managing finances or remembering appointments, often require a step-by-step process that dementia disrupts. A person may begin the process but forget how to finish it. As a result, someone with dementia may make financial mistakes, such as overpaying bills or falling victim to scams.
  3. Emotional Reactivity and Impulsivity
    Dementia can lead to a heightened emotional response, making individuals more susceptible to making decisions based on fleeting emotions rather than rational thought. For instance, they might become easily frustrated or anxious and make impulsive choices without considering alternatives.

Helping Loved Ones Make Decisions

Supporting a loved one with dementia through decision-making involves creating a safe environment and encouraging simplified choices. Establishing routines, using reminders, and enlisting the help of professionals can also reduce the impact of dementia on important decisions. As dementia progresses, guardianship or power of attorney may be necessary to ensure that important decisions are made in their best interest.

Dementia’s impact on decision-making is a serious concern, especially as it leads to erratic behavior. By understanding these changes, caregivers and family members can take proactive steps to safeguard the well-being and safety of their loved ones. If you do not already have a care team in place, consider bringing in professional staff to help support your loved one and family. NursePartners’ team of certified nursing assistants are trained in dementia care and are ready to help: 610-323-9800.

Positive Approach to Care for Deescalating Conflicts

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
memory loss, dementia care, Philadelphia dementia care, Montgomery County dementia care, Rosemont dementia care

Teepa Snow and the Positive Approach to Care (“PAC”) team, emphasize several key strategies for deescalating tension between caregivers (“carepartners”) and individuals living with dementia. Her approach is rooted in the Positive Approach to Care, which focuses on understanding the person with dementia, adjusting care strategies, and promoting positive communication. Here are some of their recommendations:

1. Stay Calm and Use a Positive, Supportive Tone

  • Approach with empathy: The PAC stress the importance of remaining calm and non-confrontational. The care partner should use a gentle, positive tone of voice, avoiding frustration or anger, as people with dementia often react strongly to emotional cues.
  • Body language: Non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, body posture, and gestures are critical. Teepa advises maintaining a relaxed posture, a soft gaze, and open palms to convey safety and support.

2. Step Back and Observe

  • Recognize triggers: The PAC suggest that care partners should try to identify what might be causing the tension. Is the person with dementia feeling anxious, frustrated, or confused? Understanding the root cause can help the carepartner intervene more effectively.
  • Pause before reacting: Instead of reacting immediately, encourage caregivers to take a step back and assess the situation. This moment of reflection can allow both the carepartner and the person with dementia to cool down.

3. Use Positive Physical Approach (“PPA”)

  • Approach from the front: The PAC emphasize approaching the person living with dementia from the front, so they can see the care partner coming. Sudden movements or approaching from behind can be startling and escalate tension.
  • Create a connection: Establish eye contact, offer a smile, and touch gently if appropriate (for example, on the forearm or hand) to create a sense of trust and safety.

4. Modify Communication

  • Simplify language: The PAC advise carepartners to use short, simple sentences with clear instructions. This helps the person with dementia process the information more easily.
  • Validate emotions: Acknowledging the feelings of the person with dementia, even if their logic seems off, is crucial. For example, saying something like, “I see you’re upset. Let’s see how we can make this better” can help defuse a situation.
  • Avoid arguing or correcting: Instead of trying to convince the person of reality or correct them, go along with their perspective in a non-confrontational way. This prevents unnecessary conflict.

5. Redirection and Distraction

  • Shift the focus: Gently redirect the person’s attention to something else if they are fixated on something that is causing distress. This could be an activity, a change of environment, or engaging them in a simple task.
  • Offer a choice: Giving the person two simple options (e.g., “Would you like to sit here or over there?”) can help them feel a sense of control and diffuse tension.

6. Adapt Environment and Expectations

  • Minimize overstimulation: The environment can play a significant role in how a person with dementia responds. Reducing noise, simplifying the space, or turning off a TV can reduce confusion and agitation.
  • Adjust expectations: Encourage carepartners to meet the person where they are, adjusting tasks to the person’s current abilities and avoiding frustration with unrealistic expectations.

7. Use a “Hand-under-Hand” Technique

  • The PAC developed a method called the Hand-under-Hand technique, which allows the carepartner to guide the person with dementia through tasks, offering support and connection without being overpowering. This technique helps with both communication and physical interaction, providing a sense of safety and reassurance.

The PAC methods focus on fostering a compassionate, respectful relationship, where the carepartner seeks to understand the perspective and needs of the person living with dementia, thus preventing and deescalating tension effectively.

When is it time for home care?

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
blood pressure 2 When is it time for home care?

A Professional, Non-Medical Home Care Company Can Help

As people age or face chronic health conditions, they need assistance with daily tasks. This can be done while they age at home, as independently as possible. Non-medical home care companies provide support for everyday activities like bathing, meal preparation, social engagement, and housekeeping.

What is Non-Medical Home Care?

Non-medical home care helps with activities like personal hygiene, cooking, light housekeeping, mobility assistance, and companionship. Caregivers focus on assisting with daily living while allowing individuals to stay in their own homes, wherever home may be.

When to Consider Non-Medical Home Care

Here are some signs it might be time to employ a non-medical home care service:

  • Difficulty with Daily Activities: When tasks like bathing, dressing, or eating become difficult, non-medical caregivers can help.
  • Chronic and Progressive Conditions: Those with conditions like arthritis, COPD, or dementia may need help keeping a routine.
  • Post-Surgery Recovery: After surgery, people might need support with daily tasks while they regain strength.
  • Caregiver Burnout: If family members are overwhelmed by caregiving duties, non-medical services offer respite.
  • Social Isolation: Non-medical caregivers provide companionship for individuals who may feel lonely.
  • Household Management Issues: Difficulty with cleaning or cooking is another reason to seek assistance.

Benefits of Non-Medical Home Care

  • Personalized Care: Services are tailored to individual needs.
  • Cost-Effective: Home care is often more affordable than assisted living.
  • Independence: Caregivers help people remain in their homes.
  • Support for Families: Caregivers ease the burden on family members.

Choosing a Provider

When selecting a non-medical home care company, consider their reputation, the qualifications of caregivers, the flexibility of services, and transparent pricing.

In summary, non-medical home care is an excellent option for those who need help with daily activities but want to stay independent. Recognizing the right time to seek this support ensures a safer, higher quality of life.

Want to learn more? Call us today at 610-323-9800.

Understanding Extreme Symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
Lewy Bodies Understanding Extreme Symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia

Introduction

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a progressive neurological disorder caused by the buildup of abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies) in the brain. This results in both cognitive and motor impairments, which worsen over time. Here, we’ll explore some of the extreme symptoms that can emerge as the disease progresses.

1. Severe Hallucinations and Delusions

A hallmark of LBD is vivid visual hallucinations, often involving people, animals, or objects. Over time, these hallucinations become more frequent and intense. Patients may also experience delusions, like Capgras syndrome, where they believe their loved ones are impostors. These false beliefs can cause paranoia, fear, and mistrust, making caregiving especially difficult.

2. Cognitive Fluctuations

Cognitive function in LBD patients can fluctuate dramatically, even within a single day. Patients may switch between near-normal cognition and extreme confusion. During severe episodes, individuals may not recognize familiar people or become completely unresponsive, leading to significant distress for both the patient and their caregivers.

3. Severe Parkinsonism and Mobility Issues

LBD often causes Parkinson’s-like motor symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. In advanced stages, these symptoms worsen, leading to severe mobility impairment. Many patients eventually become bedridden, needing full assistance with daily tasks. The risk of falls also increases, making mobility challenges even more dangerous.

4. Sleep Disorders and REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

Patients with LBD frequently suffer from severe sleep disturbances. The most extreme form is REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), where individuals physically act out their dreams, sometimes violently. This poses a risk of injury to both the patient and their bed partner. Insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness are also common, worsening cognitive and emotional symptoms.

5. Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction

LBD often disrupts the autonomic nervous system, leading to extreme symptoms like:

  • Blood pressure fluctuations: Frequent dizziness and fainting due to orthostatic hypotension.
  • Bladder and bowel dysfunction: Incontinence or severe constipation.
  • Body temperature regulation issues: Difficulty feeling comfortable, leading to extremes of feeling too hot or cold.

These complications can worsen overall health, leading to additional challenges like dehydration and infections.

6. Medication Sensitivity

LBD patients are highly sensitive to certain medications, especially antipsychotics. These drugs can exacerbate symptoms, causing severe side effects like worsened motor control and even life-threatening conditions. Non-drug approaches are often preferred, though options for managing psychiatric symptoms are limited.

Conclusion

Lewy Body Dementia is a complex and severe condition marked by extreme symptoms such as hallucinations, cognitive fluctuations, motor impairments, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms make caregiving challenging and require comprehensive, specialized care. Awareness of the extreme nature of LBD’s symptoms can help families and caregivers better understand and manage this debilitating disorder.

NursePartners has helped thousands of families in the Philadelphia region, caring for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy Body disease, and other forms of dementia. Call us to learn more about how we can best support you, 610-323-9800.

Top Five Benefits of Professional Caregivers for Older Adults

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

shutterstock 1483690310 Top Five Benefits of Professional Caregivers for Older Adults
  1. Expertise and Experience
    Professional caregivers bring specialized knowledge and training in geriatric care, enabling them to address the unique needs of older adults. Their experience helps in managing chronic conditions, ensuring medications are taken, and recognizing early signs of health issues, ensuring a higher standard of care.
  2. Personalized Support
    Professional caregivers assess the individual needs of each older adult on an ongoing basis, providing tailored assistance that can enhance their quality of life. Whether it’s help with daily activities, companionship, or specialized care, personalized support can lead to better outcomes for seniors.
  3. Improved Safety
    Having a professional caregiver can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries at home. They can help prevent falls, ensure safe mobility, and manage medications properly, creating a safer living environment for older adults.
  4. Emotional and Social Well-Being
    Professional caregivers often provide companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Their presence can foster social interaction, engage seniors in meaningful activities, and promote emotional well-being, which is crucial for mental health.
  5. Relief for Family Caregivers
    Professional caregivers can alleviate the burden on family members, allowing them to take breaks, recharge, and manage their own lives more effectively. This respite can prevent caregiver burnout and maintain healthier family dynamics.

Challenges Faced by Caregivers of Individuals Living with Dementia

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Caring for someone living with dementia is both a profound privilege and a significant challenge. As the prevalence of dementia rises globally, caregivers—often family members—are increasingly feeling the weight of this demanding role. Here are some of the key challenges they face.

NursePartners works with families every day to help alleviate these burdens.

shutterstock 2480651009 1 Challenges Faced by Caregivers of Individuals Living with Dementia

Emotional Strain

Caregivers frequently experience a range of intense emotions, from grief over the loss of the loved one they once knew to frustration when faced with the individual’s cognitive decline. The unpredictable nature of dementia can lead to feelings of helplessness and anxiety, as caregivers navigate daily changes in behavior and mood.

Physical Demands

The physical toll of caregiving can be substantial. Many caregivers find themselves engaged in strenuous tasks, such as lifting or assisting with mobility, which can lead to exhaustion and even injury. The round-the-clock nature of care means that caregivers often have little time for their own self-care, leading to burnout and health issues.

Social Isolation

Caregiving can be an isolating experience. Many caregivers withdraw from social activities due to the demands of their responsibilities, leading to loneliness and a diminished support network. This isolation can exacerbate feelings of stress and depression, making it crucial for caregivers to seek social connections, even if it requires extra effort.

Financial Burdens

The financial implications of caregiving are significant. Many caregivers reduce their work hours or leave their jobs entirely to provide care, resulting in lost income. Additionally, the costs associated with medical care, therapies, and sometimes institutional care can be overwhelming, creating financial strain for families.

Navigating Healthcare Systems

Caregivers often find themselves acting as advocates for their loved ones, which requires navigating complex healthcare systems. This can involve coordinating appointments, managing medications, and communicating with multiple healthcare professionals—tasks that can be both time-consuming and stressful.

Lack of Training and Resources

Many caregivers lack the training needed to manage the specific challenges associated with dementia care. This includes understanding the progression of the disease, effective communication strategies, and coping techniques for difficult behaviors. Access to resources and training programs can help alleviate some of these challenges, but many caregivers remain unaware of available support.

Conclusion

The challenges faced by caregivers of individuals with dementia are multifaceted and deeply impactful. Addressing these issues through better support systems, access to resources, and community engagement is essential for improving the well-being of both caregivers and those they care for. By fostering a more supportive environment, we can help caregivers navigate their roles with greater resilience and compassion.

NursePartners supports older adults and their loved ones by uplifting the burden of caregiving. We would prefer loved ones enjoy their moments with their friends and relatives, while we take care of the hands on care.

How to Help Your Elderly Parents Move House

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

It’s more likely that our parents will need to relocate to a new house as they age. Moving your parents into a new house may be challenging and stressful, whether due to their deteriorating health, the death of a spouse, or simply because their existing home is no longer adequate for their requirements. This blog article will review the importance of relocating your elderly parents, getting them ready for the change, and making the transfer go as smoothly as possible. After reading this article, we hope you understand what must be done to ensure your elderly parents receive the proper care.

Elderly Parent Moving How to Help Your Elderly Parents Move House

Communicate openly

Seniors may have an emotional attachment to the house they’re leaving, so it’s normal for them to feel sad and uncertain about the transition. It might be challenging to discuss the move with your elderly parent, but doing so can help the transition go more smoothly. Give them time to adjust to the change and talk to them about where they will live and why they are going. Giving your loved one as much control as possible while they plan and carry out the relocation can help them feel less stressed when asked to leave their long-time residence.

Make a plan and downsize

There is no such thing as early planning when you need to help your elderly parents move house. Downsizing their stuff with them before you start packing is an excellent place to start, especially if they are relocating to a place considerably smaller than their present residence. You may lessen the tension and any sense of being kept hostage by their possessions by selling, recycling, giving unwanted goods as gifts to relatives, or donating them. That is a sensitive procedure you should go through with your parents, at their own pace. You may always hire a professional to help if you’re having trouble finding the time or the emotional stamina for the task. The expert will sit with them and assist them with decluttering and downsizing, listen to their tales, and ensure that each thing goes to its proper home.

Rent a storage unit for what’s left

Your loved one might not be quite ready to part with particular objects. Maybe they want to entrust them to future generations. Whatever the reasons, it’s possible that you’ll have to rent a storage unit to keep the rest of their possessions. Storage facilities are a safe, practical, and accessible solution for anyone needing to store their belongings temporarily during relocation. Furthermore, suppose you need to relocate somewhere in Philadelphia. In that case, local movers can help you get your items safely to any location, whether it is your parent’s new home or a storage unit. Professional movers will offer expert help with any task, making your relocation a breeze.

Involve the rest of the family

It’s not necessary to help your elderly parents move house alone. Even if you may take the initiative, don’t be reluctant to enlist family members to share the workload. One person may, for instance, be in charge of getting moving supplies and finding a storage facility, while another compiles an inventory of every item in the house by room. This procedure will simplify relocation and assist in reuniting the family for a significant life event.

Start packing

Nobody likes packing the night before a move, including your elderly parents. You want to prevent unnecessary tension, which might result from unpreparedness. As a result, start packing as soon as you have assisted them in decluttering and know what will be moving. Work your way through the house packing the items that aren’t used frequently first before moving on to the items required daily. You may even hire a professional to pack and move your parent’s possessions for them, relieving the tension even more. Doing this assignment early can save you worry in the long run and make the relocation a much simpler process.

Clean the old house

You still have much work to do after you finish organizing and packing. Whether you sell the old residence, rent it, or give it to another relative, you must do the same tasks. Therefore, consider cleaning the house and making necessary repairs before they become irremediable. Taking care of maintenance concerns immediately rather than later when the property is up for sale is preferable.

Prepare the new house

After you’ve located the ideal new residence for your elderly parents, it’s essential to check that it is senior-friendly. That entails making sure there are no stairs or steps that can present fall risks, the restroom is simple to use, and the kitchen is spacious enough to walk around without being restricted. Also, pay attention to how you organize the new home. For example, if the arrangement of the pictures on the living room wall was the same for as long as you can remember, carry it over to the new house. If you need to buy new furniture, arrange things in the same order and include decorations like throw blankets and pillows. Additionally, put pots and pans where you know your loved one can find and reach them.

Transfer paperwork

If your parent is relocating far away, they might need to replace their dentist, doctor, or any other services they have. That may be a specific aspect of moving, but if your family has been seeing the same physician for a long time, the change in routine might be stressful. To prevent papers from sitting at their previous location, make the address changes as soon as possible. Additionally, have their mail forwarded to the new address.

Make the travel arrangements

Transportation may be a little more complicated, depending on how far you relocate your elderly parents. A short vehicle trip is not too challenging if you relocate them down the street. But, if they are traveling a long distance, the physical journey may become problematic. Will your elderly parent feel comfortable driving a long distance in a car? Is it preferable to transport them by train or plane? Find that out and plan a schedule that works for both of you. However, no matter how you plan to transfer them, wait until all their possessions are moved and unpacked.

Final thoughts

As you can see, it’s not that difficult to help your elderly parents move house. All you need is a good organization and a well-thought plan. Your loved one should experience a smoother transition if you carefully plan the relocation and the new house is ready to welcome them.

Caring for a Senior Loved One: When to Move Closer

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Modern technology has enabled people to work and communicate from any part of the world, resulting in many families scattered around several cities and states. However, there are instances when your physical presence and attention are needed. Taking care of a senior loved one presents specific practical challenges that can’t be managed from a distance. Relocating to a new city can be traumatic for your loved one, and there are times when moving closer is the best option. But what are the telltale signs that the time has come?

Today, NursePartners shares some tips to help you recognize and respond to the signs.  

best home care, best dementia care

Signs Your Senior Loved One Needs You

Parents and close relatives who’ve been leading independent lives may not want children, family, or other loved ones to know they require increased care. You may notice their eyesight is deteriorating, and they’re less mobile and active than before. For example, they may have difficulty with day-to-day tasks, such as driving and cooking. A loss of interest in activities and hobbies they previously enjoyed may indicate they suffer from depression and feel isolated.

Before contemplating any action, take a trip to visit them, and talk to friends and any caregivers. By getting a realistic picture of their current situation, you can make informed decisions on the best plan moving forward.

Taking Steps to Move

One of the primary challenges of moving is finding a new home. The best way to overcome these challenges and avoid an emotion-driven purchase is to rent a property in an area close to where your senior loved one lives to assess the situation.

If you plan to purchase a home, for example, top mortgage lenders can help you. The house you can buy depends on your monthly income and total monthly expenses. It means that you have to add up your monthly expenses and divide the total by your gross monthly income. Some online calculators can assist if you aren’t sure how to calculate your debt-to-income ratio. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, it’s a good idea to get a feel for the market and the prices you can expect.

Lastly, develop a plan to help you prepare for the move itself. Don’t think you need to do everything yourself. You can do yourself a big favor by searching online for “movers near me,” then browsing ratings and reviews to get the best deal.

Getting a jump start on this can make all the difference in the world; the sooner you start making a plan, the smoother the process can be. Sure, there will still be a few bumps in the road, but planning ahead is essential when you’re moving — especially if you’re moving yourself and your business.

Arranging Care for Your Senior Loved One 

Your loved one may experience loss of memory, act impulsively, or lose their balance when walking, which may be indicative of the early stages of dementia. Depending on the level of care your loved one needs and the amount of time you can spend taking care of them, consider using professional caregivers’ services. In many cases, seniors require specialized treatment as their condition advances.

Take Preventative Action

Whether or not to move closer to a senior loved one isn’t an easy decision, as it involves several changes for you and the person you’re caring for. By carefully assessing the situation and determining the actual level and need of care, it can help make a move successful in the long run.

NursePartners provides services to assist someone living with this ever-changing condition to help them live fully in their moment. Call 610-323-9800.

This article was submitted by Donna Erickson.